Allen Garner

Allen "Al" Charles Garner, 68, Abilene, Texas, went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Wednesday June 19, 2019 at his home with his family by his side. Visitation will be Held 5:00 PM-7:00 PM, Friday, June 28, 2019 at Mt Zion Baptist Church, 520 Stafford Street Abilene, Texas. Funeral will be held at 11:00 AM, Saturday, June 29, 2019 at Mt Zion Baptist Church, Burial will follow the service in Albany Cemetery, Albany, Texas

Allen Garner was born to the parentage of Charles B Garner and Gladys (Stewart) Garner, August 9, 1950. He was the eldest of 3 sons. Al attended the Kansas City, MO school district. He loved traveling and visited many cities and states.

Al moved to Texas where he received his GED. He met Paula Alexander and fell in love with her and her daughters, Monique and Dwan, in Fort Worth, TX. They made the decision to move their family to Albany TX, where he was employed by the TX Highway Department. He was very proud to be the only black man to ever work there. After several years they relocated back to Ft Worth, TX and he transferred with the TX Highway Department. He also worked for the Fort Worth Star Telegram.

His most prideful degree was obtained from Hennepin Technical College, in Brooklyn Park, MN. He was honored with the degree of Residential Property Maintenance Technician, in December 2001. After receiving his degree, he became his own boss and he established "Allen Your Helping Hand".

After reuniting with his family in Abilene, TX in 2007 he quickly became known and respected for his knowledge and the pride he took in each and every job. From yard work, remodeling, painting and flooring, there was not much he could not do. He mentored many and never met a stranger. His word was his bond. His smile and laughter brought joy to any room or crowd. He was known in his neighborhood as the man that drove slowly, waving at everyone he passed. Al had a passion for life, even when his illness slowed him down. Even until the last week of his life, he mowed his own backyard, because he did not trust anyone to do it the way that he liked.

Al also loved fishing in many places, and spending hours on the water. Whether in his boat or standing along the shore line. He also enjoyed to barbeque using his favorite sauce, "Gates", which he would have shipped from Kansas City, MO, by the case.

Al became a member of the Mount Zion First Baptist Church in 2009. He was a proud servant of The Men of Faith and the Male Chorus. His favorite song was Silent Night, where he had one of the lead vocals, no one will ever compare to his deep voice and his style of singing this song.

He married the love of his life, Paula in 2016, and they continued to live their lives together as they had always planned.

Proceeded in death by his parents, he leaves to cherish his precious memory, his loving and devoted wife, Paula. His brothers; Harold (Rhonda) Garner and Frank Garner. His children; Sonya, Michael, Allen Jr, and Cortez Garner, Monique Alexander, Dwan (Floyd) Robinson, Tamika and Louis Toombs, Samantha Garner and God-daughter Janeen (Ray) Fuller. Grandchildren; Javontay, Kristofer, Donalante, Tahja, Serenity, Queen, Kahliyah, Kahlief, Laila, Talia, Kierra, Lacy, Kiyauna, Kamora, Janari and K'syn. Great Greandchildren; Paislee and Krai. Brothers and Sisters in-law; Curnell and Candi Dunning, Jo Alexander, Charles McCoy, Marsha Alexander and Bobby Palmer. Father in-law; JW Alexander, and best and longtime friend JD Wilson. Numerous nephews and nieces, who called him the "Cool Uncle", and many special cousins and close friends.

Al was called home to rest on June 19th at his home surrounded by loved ones and his pastor. He will be missed by many, because he was loved by many. We loved him, but God loved him more.